Babbacombe, South Devon (17. Viewing platform, Babbacombe Downs)

This area was once also like that but now you can see how the downs have been transformed from open grasslands into formal lawns, flower beds and promenading paths. If there is good visibility this viewpoint gives a wonderful coastal panorama of Lyme Bay. Nearest to us is a sweep of red cliffs like those we saw at Oddicombe Beach. They extend past Teignmouth and Exmouth. After that are the light coloured cliffs of the famous Jurassic coast and then the chalk cliffs near Weymouth and the Isle of Portland. Look at the direction finder to  spot Portland which is over 40 miles away! Also notice how straight most of the coast appears to be as far as you can see. You might wonder why. From the mouth of the River Exe at Exmouth you can draw an imaginary line on a map to the mouth of the River Tees in Yorkshire. To the north-west of the line lie all the oldest, most resistant rocks in Britain; to the south-east of the line are the youngest and least resistant. What you can see from here is this dividing line. Beyond the River Exe is the first of the younger, less resistant rocks. These softer rocks erode quicker and at a more even pace, which is why much of that coastline is so straight in contrast to this section of coastline. Directions to Stop 18 Go down the steps and turn left. Follow the cliff top path to the far end. Cross in front of the theatre and around its right side to the corner of Babbacombe Downs Road. Bear left down Beach Road. After about 25 metres is a gateway on the right into a grey stone house called Babbacombe Cliff. Stop by the blue plaque on the wall.